Gifts of Lovingkindness for the Holidays: It is infinitely strange that during the holidays of Peace and Love, sales of violent toys and defenseless “pets” sky rocket. Along with that, millions of dollars are donated to charities, such as Oxfam, that give “food” animals to impoverished people and to cancer and other organizations that perform gruesome and usless tests on animals. Yet there is evidence around the world that people are awakening to the true meaning of “Love One Another.” More people are becoming vegan and living an ahimsa life than ever before. There are vegan organizations helping to end hunger and ethical research being done which does not harm animals and truly helps people. For gift ideas, there are vegan books to buy; vegan music and podcasts; art that promotes love for all beings; charities, such as animal sanctuaries and animal rights organizations; and cruelty-free soaps, cookies, and many other items to give to our loved ones and simultaneously promote the true meaning of the holidays—loving one another. Of course we know that the word “another” includes all others.

This Week’s Prayer for Holiday Gift Buyers to Choose Love over Violence: We ourselves can help others consider giving gifts that reflect the longing of all people and all animals for peace and an end to violence and cruelty. We give thanks that nearly all people do sincerely long for kindness, love, peace, and joy. This is the foundation upon which we build the new way of living in harmony with all. We give thanks that so many people are realizing that we really can live without being violent; that we really can question all that we have been taught; that we really can create the paradise that has always lived in our hearts. This week, as we navigate the holiday season, we ask for strength and wisdom, that we may be guiding lights to others to help them choose cruelty-free and violence-free gifts of love. We ask for an even deeper connection with all the animals who are suffering—that they may know deep in their spirits that we will not forsake them. We will be their voice until our earth home has become what it was always meant to be—a place of freedom and beauty for all beings everywhere; a place where we all finally have learned to “Love One Another.” (revised from last year’s holiday prayer)

As always, I send my thanks to each of you, dear Prayer Circle members, for

May Divine Wisdom, the animals’ grace, and our true hearts guide us toward ahimsa, peace, liberation, and lovingkindness for all. As always, I send my thanks to each of you, dear Prayer Circle members, for joining this circle of compassion and shining the Light of Truth for all to see, so that one day soon, all beings will live in peace together.

With Love, peace, and gratitude from Judy Carman, and greetings from Will, Madeleine, Tara and the Circle of Compassion team

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